Dexter, Missouri - Susan Cox was recently diagnosed with a rare neurological condition called Transverse Myelitis. A Valentine Gala benefit will be held in her honor on Thursday, February 8, 2018 at Dexter's Wesley Hall at the First United Methodist Church.
It's been nearly four months ago since Susan's life changed. She began feeling discomfort on her right side, then it affected her legs and by the afternoon she was in the hospital in Cape Girardeau looking for answers. Doug, Susan's husband decided to head to Barnes Hospital in St. Louis where they spent a number of days confirming the rare condition.
Many of you know Susan's husband, Doug, works for the city of Dexter, but spends countless hours serving up delicious BBQ at many fundraisers and events locally.
Once the diagnosis was confirmed, they decided to go the best hospital in the country who has doctors known to be the "the pioneers" of Transverse Myelitis aka TM. They traveled to John Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore and doctors there agreed Susan had TM.
TM is defined as a rare neurological condition in which the spinal cord is inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by an infection, immune system disorder or damage to nerve fibers.
Cox was left without feeling from the middle of her body to her toes and has now undergone intense physical therapy. Ironically she works at Select Physical Therapy in Dexter and has been employed there for 20 years. She has been utilizing her therapy each and every day to the point she is able to stand, walk, and even maneuver without a walker.
The damage is done and will not heel according to her doctors; however she is determined to continue working and helping others. Both her and her husband are known in the community as ones who help others first.
With all the medical and travel expenses, friends have decided to help the Cox family with a Valentine's Gala Benefit. Tickets for the event are available at Gregory's Two East in downtown Dexter and are $25 each. Finger foods and beverages will be served beginning at 6:30 p.m. with musical entertainment provided by local artists. Maggie Thorn Arlan Taylor, Mary Ruth Boone, and Jansen Williams will perform.
A silent auction will also take place and donations will be gladly accepted at Gregory's.
For additional information contact Gregory's Two East at (573) 624-4554. Tickets will also be available at the door.
